British Virgin Islands-style Coconut Ciabatta

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian ciabatta is transformed into a Caribbean delight by incorporating coconut milk and shredded coconut. These ingredients infuse the bread with a tropical flavor and aroma, giving it a unique twist that reflects the culinary traditions of the British Virgin Islands. We alse have the original recipe for Ciabatta, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) coconut milk 300ml (1 ¼ cups) coconut milk
• 50g (½ cup) shredded coconut 50g (½ cup) shredded coconut
• Olive oil, for greasing Olive oil, for greasing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the coconut milk to the dry ingredients, mixing well until a sticky dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Punch down the dough and knead in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
6. 6.
   Shape the dough into a rectangular loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. 8.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
9. 9.
   Bake the ciabatta for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the creamy part is evenly mixed with the liquid.
• Shredded coconut — If using sweetened shredded coconut, adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe accordingly.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced coconut flavor, you can add a few drops of coconut extract to the dough.
• Toasting the shredded coconut before adding it to the dough can enhance its nutty flavor.
• Serve the Coconut Ciabatta warm with a spread of coconut butter for an extra tropical touch.

Serving advice

Serve the British Virgin Islands-style Coconut Ciabatta as a side to Caribbean-inspired dishes such as jerk chicken, curry goat, or seafood stew. It also pairs well with tropical fruit jams or chutneys.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some toasted shredded coconut on top of the ciabatta before baking. This will add a touch of visual appeal and highlight the coconut flavor.